Photocourse 1 - Introduction to creative photography - running 18 February, 2025
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This introductory course gets you off the auto settings and covers the basics of camera control and photo composition for users of mirrorless and DSLR cameras.
The course runs on Tuesday evenings, 18th February to 11th March, 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The Saturday workshop at Makara Beach will be on 22nd February, 10.30am-3pm Introduction
Photocourse 1 is the first in a series of part-time course, run from our studios and gallery at Photospace, Courtenay Place, Wellington city. It provides an excellent introduction to the basic skills of photography through practical workshops and assignments that explore the most important techniques and the main themes of photography. While there are many online camera tutorials and suchlike available, you can't go past the opportunity to learn the creative side of photography in a small group environment with highly experienced, knowledgeable tutors. The aim is to begin to see as a photographer: to learn how to translate what you see into unique, personal photographs. To achieve this, taking full control of the camera is essential. You get to make the creative decisions, not your camera. You will get constructive personal feedback on your own photos and also learn a lot from feedback on others' photos. Photocourse 1 is aimed at beginner-level or first-time DSLR and mirrorless camera users, but intermediate-level photographers will also find it a good refresher and a worthwhile learning experience. A key part of this course is the time spent out at Makara Beach and township taking photos on the Saturday. You will need to be able to attend this to get the most benefit from the course. We go out to Makara Beach in the morning and return to Wellington by 4pm at the latest. The reserve day (for bad weather) is the following Saturday. With a small class (limit of 8) and experienced, professional tutors, we can offer you plenty of individual attention and feedback. Photocourse 1 is social and fun as well as creative and educational. Suitable digital cameras: - DSLR - digital single lens reflex - Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Pentax, Panasonic Lumix, Sony, etc - Mirrorless interchangeable lens, (Nikon Z-series, Canon R series, Fuji X series, Olympus, Sony, Panasonic Lumix, etc) Notes: This introductory course does not cover film photography, but we have that covered in other courses and workshops we offer. It also does not cover cellphone photography, but you will find your cellphone photos will look much better once you understand more about how photography works and you begin to develop your personal style and way of seeing. The main thing is the camera must allow manual setting of the main creative controls; shutter speed, f-stop, ISO, white balance. If in doubt about your camera model, please email for advice. Extra lenses are nice to have but not necessary; you could do everything with one fixed standard lens if you wish. A tripod can be useful, but if you don't have one we have plenty of spare tripods available for you to borrow when needed. |
Shadows in the studio, September 2022. Photo: J.Gilberd
Cabbage tree, Photo: J.Gilberd
Tutors: James Gilberd and Thomas Slade
Topics covered include:
Photocourse 1 Course fee
Total course fee: $290.00 including GST.
To reserve a place, a deposit of $90.00 is required - see conditions & payment. 
Makara church interior. Photo: J.Gilberd
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Photo workshop at Makara Beach. Photo: J.Gilberd
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Makara Beach
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Photographing at Makara Beach, Wellington. Photo: J.Gilberd
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